Two men are playing Russian roulette using a pistol with six chambers.
A single bullet is used and the chamber is spun after every turn.

What is the probability that the first man will lose?

Inconclusive, if they are not perfectly blindfolded it is possible one and or both of them noticed which chamber the bullet was loaded into. Then depending on their relative skills they could significantly reduce or increase their change of "losing". Moreover, to better answer the question I would have to examine the gun, bullet and environmental conditions to calculate the probability of potential misfires. Also, I would need to know the rules (variation) of this particular game of Russian Roulette, and also consider that it is theoretically possible to survive any gunshot wound from point blank range. Whether or not this qualifies as losing depends on the game of Roulette played. I guess what I'm trying to say is I don't like your question so I will not answer. Let's watch a little less tv, a little less 'Deer Hunter', get a little less violent, and rephrase the question into a game of casino roulette.

Posted by Hal9000 on 2003-11-11 14:36:21